We cannot work without doctors - HIV experts

Person living with HIV/AIDS under their umbrella,  National Network for People Living with HIV/Aids in Uganda (NAFOPHANU) have expressed concern over the ongoing strike by the doctors saying in the absence of medics in hospitals, they (experts) cannot render their services to HIV patients.

These HIV experts are HIV-positive men and women who often work hand in hand with medical doctors through counselling those who are tested positive for HIV. They often share their experiences with patients.

They also contribute to improving retention in care, increasing uptake of HIV services, reducing service provider workload and strengthening referral linkages.

"The medical workers on strike and shortage of ARVs pauses a security crisis and a public health disaster to the country. We want the Speaker of Parliament to convene a special sitting to address the doctors' demands," said Stella Kentutsi, the executive director NAFOPHANU at a press briefing recently.

Noting that HIV differs from other diseases, Dr Stephen Watiti, another HIV expert said if any patient that is supposed to take their ARVs is deprived of them due to lack of services, it will only make the country lose its gains in the fight against HIV/AIDS.